Arbutus (63-64 Frith Street, London, W1D 3JW) Wow, this was a confusing experience. Went for a business lunch… the place was empty… waitress selling the food as it was the last Oscar to be won… food was slightly better than average… but come on… this place gets top stars and top reviews everywhere. Yes they took my coat without prompting and drinks where offered and served effortlessly, but the place was empty!! Having lunch is not just about the food – the whole experience should count. Luckily for me, I had lunch with my favorite journalist, who always commands my attention and makes me laugh. The starter of roast beets with goat's curd was good, but not exceptional or for that matter, particularly memorable. The beef, usually a man's dish, was at best “gender confused” and the accompanying potato gratin was overcooked… yes the wine list is reasonably priced, but the lunch as an overall experience falls so very short. Perhaps I visited on a bad day??
Permanent link to this review 1 February 2010 | 
Lotta S.
